How can Kolkata gain from PNG relief, ask oil cos

Kolkata: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have sought clarification from the Centre on a new directive linking additional commercial LPG allocation to registration for piped natural gas (PNG), flagging concerns for cities like Kolkata, where PNG infrastructure is minimal.In a March 21 letter to all state chief secretaries, petroleum secretary Neeraj Mittal said all commercial and industrial LPG consumers must apply for PNG connections with city gas distribution entities and be ready to switch before becoming eligible for additional LPG allocation. The directive also mandates registration with OMCs to qualify for supply.However, industry stakeholders point out the policy may not be immediately implementable in Kolkata. "There is virtually no PNG network for commercial users here. Linking LPG allocation to PNG readiness creates a practical challenge," an OMC official said.Data shows Kolkata has only 450 active domestic PNG connections, with potential to scale up to 3,500. There is no commercial PNG connection here but there are nearly 60,000 commercial LPG consumers. Bengal Gas is the authorised operator for PNG and CNG in the region.Restaurant owners have expressed mixed reactions. Sudesh Poddar, president of Hotel Restaurant Association of Eastern India, said the body would write to the petroleum ministry seeking clarification. "We need a city-specific approach where PNG is not yet available," he said.Anjan Chatterjee, chairman of Speciality Restaurants, termed the move "progressive but premature" for Kolkata. "It can help curb hoarding, as businesses will have to disclose consumption patterns. But cities without PNG networks will need flexibility," he added, citing Pune, where the system works due to existing infrastructure.